Design-Build RFPs by Example

A Practical Guide to Developing Biddable, Defensible Request for Proposal Packages for ICT, Software, and Complex Systems Projects

Creating a Design-Build Request for Proposal (RFP) that is truly biddable, defensible, and aligned with real-world delivery is one of the most challenging tasks in complex infrastructure and technology projects. Too often, RFPs are either overly prescriptive—shifting risk back to the owner—or too vague to support competitive, comparable proposals.

Design-Build RFPs by Example provides a practical, end-to-end framework for developing complete Design-Build RFP packages using a realistic use case approach. Rather than focusing on theory, this book walks through what actually belongs in an RFP, why each section matters, and how the pieces fit together to support best-value procurement and successful execution.

The book covers the full RFP lifecycle, including:

• Defining use cases and project objectives

• Writing clear, non-prescriptive system requirements

• Structuring technical requirements without designing the solution

• Addressing interfaces, integration, and systems engineering artifacts

• Developing commercial and contractual sections

• Creating evaluation criteria and proposal scoring frameworks

• Managing risk, responsibilities, and deliverables

• Supporting award, acceptance, and transition to delivery

Special attention is given to topics that frequently cause confusion or disputes, such as Interface Control Documents (ICDs), Requirements Traceability Matrices (RTMs), and the proper use of the systems engineering V-Diagram in Design-Build procurement. The book clearly explains when these artifacts should be required, who should develop them, and how they are used—without undermining Design-Build accountability.

To support immediate application, the book includes RFP-ready language, annotated examples, checklists, templates, and appendices, making it a practical reference for repeat use. While the primary use case focuses on ICT infrastructure, the framework is fully adaptable to software development, enterprise systems, security systems, and other complex technical projects.

This book is written for:

• Owners and agencies

• Program and project managers

• Engineers and systems engineers

• ICT and software professionals

• Procurement and contracts staff

If you are responsible for developing or managing Design-Build RFPs—and want clearer requirements, better proposals, and fewer downstream disputes—this book provides a proven, practical approach grounded in real-world experience.